Bring The Pretty To Summer Socials

Summertime means many things to me. Certainly one of the first things that comes to my mind are all the pool parties and BBQ soirees that we'll host over the next couple of months. Though I've learned that even simple, unembellished gatherings can be just as much fun, I like to up the ante on get togethers with a little unexpected flair and that for me, usually relates back to food presentation. 

I've never really entertained around party "themes" per se, but I have been scouting disposable serve ware in ice cream colors and neon hues for our upcoming days by the pool. Below are a few of the finds I've earmarked for the Summer socials that are already filling up our calendar.

1. Test Tube Shooters (we had these at our wedding) // 2. Disposable Lunch Trays // 3. Ice Cream Cone Jackets // 4. Ice Cream Cups (personalize with a stamp or monogram) //  5. Vintage Paper Straws // 6. Plastic Hot Dog Wrappers (reusable all summer long!) // 7. Biodegradable Ice Cream Spoons 

Stamped Wooden Ice Cream Spoons (intro)

Pattern Party

I tend to lean towards a more conservative and streamlined aesthetic when entertaining. But I have to admit that these pretty patterns have me nearly persuaded to incorporate a few into an upcoming birthday party I'm planning at the house.

  A recent trip to Target found me standing in the aisle, all but captivated at the fresh designs of their latest party collections.  Best part is the affordable price point. Heck, at less than $3 for a package of 10, I might even stock up for summer shindigs. 

I pulled out a few of my favorites above, but trust me when I say there are many more to choose from. I might even consider one of their irresistible paper cloths for my upcoming fete- gasp!  For the real goods, head on over to your nearest store because they regrettably aren't sold online.

A few weeks ago, I had stumbled upon the MarthaCelebrations collection online at JC Penney. Planning a small wedding or a shower? You might want to dive into the conveniently curated categories on the JC Penney website. You can search by color - encountering appealing hues such as 'sweetgrass', 'cotton candy' and 'scarlet'. You can search by celebration type, where half the work is already done for you in pulling together a well coordinated event or simply by product. Be sure to check out the 'sweets' section, where you'll find a collection of color-coordinated candy and sets of apothecary jars that'll make pulling together a sweets bar easy peasy.  

It looks like you'll find at least part of the collection in your local store. I did. What I really like about this collection is that you get all of the same elegant patterns that one might find in a high end party boutique without high end boutique pricing. Win.